Drawing In Those Long Term Tenants

We all remember that day when we were fresh out of college, determined to move out of our small town. Most likely, you were like me and needed to find an apartment fast. When I finally found a listing I could afford, I had to be certain of the landlord first. I wanted to make sure the landlord was trustworthy and was aware of my living situation.

Renting out your first apartment can be nerve-racking. Finding a place all on your own is hard enough, but negotiating with your landlord is another story.

Fortunately for me, my landlord was interested with my business and wanted to do everything in her power to keep my interests at heart. As I lived just above my landlord on the 2nd floor, I realized her demeanor is what has attracted so many long-term tenants. 

I am happy to report that I have yet to find other living accommodations that match the standard set by my landlord. 

And how did my landlord accomplish such a feat? Well I’m about to tell you. Here’s how you can inspire long-term rental relationships with tenants.

            1. Do your best to work with your tenants

Now, I’m not saying go and lower your lease a few hundred dollars if the tenant demands it. What I am saying is considered a compromise. When I signed my lease, I had come to find out I wasn’t the only one that had my eyes on the apartment. However, I wasn’t jumping at the opportunity to sign my lease without looking at other potential accommodations. My landlord, however, made it easy on me. Rather than pressuring me into grabbing the apartment while I could, my landlord granted me a grace period. She promised me she would not lease the space that day without hearing from me first.

The effort made to work with me did not go unnoticed. The gesture showed me that I was valued as a potential tenant and was respectful and understanding. 

Making a good impression on your tenants is important, laying the foundation for a good relationship is key if you want to keep them around for a while. Keep in mind that a flexible policy can go a long way.

               2. A warm welcome

Moving into a new city where you don’t know your way around can be scary. When I moved into my apartment, my landlord so kindly provided me with a list of all her favorite community hot-spots, along with a few dining recommendations. She established herself and the go-to contact for questions relating to the neighborhood. Her warm welcome made me feel not so alone in my new space. Her friendliness made a real impression on me. 

If being outgoing and friendly isn’t your thing, a small welcome-gift can have just as much effect if not more. If doesn’t have to be expensive, but if does show that you care. I compiled a list of inexpensive gifts that you might wanna use next time you bring on a new tenant:

• Coffee beans
• Baked goods (if you provide consumables, make sure your tenant is aware of the 

ingredients)

• Cleaning Supplies
• Map of the area
• Coupon of gift card for a local favorite
• Your contact info on a note card

By giving a small welcome gift you’re opening a live of communication from the very beginning. This will encourage your tenant to call you in case something happens. 

               3. Maintaining the “little” things

Neglecting your tenants can drive a wedge in your rental relationships, especially if you’ve led your tenant to believe you don’t care for their comfort. Respond to maintenance requests as soon as possible, this can include more than apartment maintenance. 

I had a parking issues my first week of moving in. The spot was small and I was having trouble fitting my car. I mentioned it to my landlord and she helped make accommodations. It made me feel like I wasn’t just another tenant. 

               4. Make the area feel safe

Installing security around your building show be a breeze with today’s technology. If you don’t already have security, look into getting some. If and when you make the adjustments to your property, be sure to make your tenants aware of the new procedures and protocol. Emails or notes on the door work great. 

My landlord was always ensuring her security was functioning properly. There was a camera near my parking space and was always checking and maintaining the locks. Her attentiveness to security was a deciding factor in renewing my lease.

               5. Respect their privacy

As a tenant, I never have to worry about surprise inspections. Surprising your tenants like that is not a good approach. Not to mention that it’s illegal in more jurisdictions. As the landlord, you should have a decent way of navigating the renter’s space. 

Other than an emergency, if you plan on entering their space let them know ahead of time. Schedule something with them that won’t be an inconvenience. It shouldn’t be a meeting either of you dread. They should look forward to seeing you. 

Be sure to communicate as much as needed. Your relationship with the tenant relies on it. Maintain an open line of communication. They deserve their privacy, so maintaining some personal distance is crucial.

by Mike P.